Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog puppies for sale in Alberta

Breed history

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is one of Australia's oldest working dog breeds, developed in the early 19th century specifically for herding cattle in harsh, rugged conditions. Bred from a mix of native Australian dingoes and early British herding breeds such as the Smithfield and possibly the Scottish Highland Collie, the breed was prized for its endurance, intelligence, and natural droving instincts. Its defining feature, the naturally short tail, distinguishes it from its close relative, the Australian Cattle Dog. Farmers valued the stumpy tail not only as a breed trait but also as a practical advantage to prevent injury while working in dense brush or tight quarters. Over time, the breed became known for its loyalty, independence, and unmatched stamina, making it an indispensable part of rural Australian life. Though less common today, the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog remains a symbol of Australia’s pastoral heritage and working-dog tradition.